Sunday, January 31, 2010

I make it a point NOT to make New Year's Resolutions. They never stick, and they end up making me feel worse about myself. But this year, as the clock struck twelve, I promised myself I'd make more time for my writing. This thought was due in part to my friend, Linda (follow her blog at http://www.lindaoconnell.blogspot.com), who encouraged me to send out two fictional pieces the last week of December, and who, because of that, helped to reignite my desire to write.

Throughout 2009 I'd been busy parenting three kids, working full time at the agency and freelancing as a copywriter in my "spare" time. I had convinced myself that there simply wasn't any time left to write just for pleasure. I was wrong. And if this sounds like you, I assure you that there is time. It begins with one sentence. Just sit down with a pen or a laptop and give yourself five minutes. You'll be surprised at how much is inside you, just waiting to come out.

Since January 1, I've sent in two more pieces, and have four more in the works. It's still January, and I've already gotten my first rejection letter! And yes, I am excited about that, because it means I made the effort, and I'm working to get my stuff out there. It won't be right for every magazine or literary journal, but I'll find each one a home.

I created this blog, in part, as a way for me to hold myself accountable to my New Year's promise (and it's title encourages all of us to Write. Now!). Instead of looking forward to what this year brings, I'm looking forward to what I bring to this new year!